Category Archives: Vehicle Maintenance

The Benefits of Servicing Your Transmission Fluid: Keep Your Car Running Smoothly

The Benefits of Servicing Your Transmission Fluid: Keep Your Car Running Smoothly

When it comes to vehicle maintenance, one of the most overlooked services is transmission fluid replacement. While many car owners focus on oil changes, tire rotations, and brake checks, they may not realize that regularly servicing transmission fluid is just as crucial. Your vehicle’s transmission system is responsible for ensuring smooth gear shifts and efficient power transfer to the wheels. Keeping it well-maintained can prevent serious issues down the road. Let’s explore the key benefits of servicing your transmission fluid: 1. Extended Transmission LifespanTransmission fluid is the lifeblood of your car’s transmission system. Over time, the fluid can become contaminated with dirt, debris, and metal particles from the gears. These impurities cause wear and te ... read more

Why a Coolant System Exchange is Essential for Your Vehicle’s Health

Why a Coolant System Exchange is Essential for Your Vehicle’s Health

Your vehicle is in the shop for routine maintenance, and the technician recommends a Coolant System Exchange. You might wonder, "Is this really necessary?" The answer is yes! At Dickerson Automotive, we, like most trusted repair shops, follow a general rule: a coolant exchange should be done every 5 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Here's why it's so important. Over time, the anti-freeze in your vehicle becomes more acidic and begins to lose its rust-inhibiting properties. This can lead to corrosion and rust buildup inside the cooling system, which puts critical components like the radiator, water pump, and thermostat at risk of failure. Left unchecked, these issues can cause your vehicle to overheat, potentially leading to costly repairs or breakdowns. Performing a coolant system exchange ensures that these components ... read more

10 Essential Car Maintenance Tips Every Driver Should Know

10 Essential Car Maintenance Tips Every Driver Should Know

Proper car maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs. Whether you're a seasoned driver or new to car ownership, following these essential car maintenance tips will help extend your vehicle's lifespan and keep it in top condition. Here are ten tips every driver should know: Regular Oil Changes One of the most crucial aspects of car care is changing your oil regularly. Fresh oil ensures your engine is lubricated and runs efficiently. Depending on the type of oil and your vehicle, aim for an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles to keep your engine in peak condition. Check Tire Pressure Maintaining the correct tire pressure improves fuel efficiency and extends the life of your tires. Underinflated or overinflated tires can lead to uneven wear and reduce vehicle performance. Check your tire pressure monthly, and don't forget to inspect your spare tire as well. Monitor Brake Pads and Rot ... read more

Understanding Fluid Exchanges: Keeping Your Vehicle Running Smoothly

Understanding Fluid Exchanges: Keeping Your Vehicle Running Smoothly

When your repair shop recommends fluid exchanges for your vehicle, you might wonder, "What does that really mean?" Most of us are familiar with regular oil changes, but did you know your vehicle actually relies on up to seven different fluids to keep all its components running smoothly? Let’s dive into what these fluids do and why maintaining them is crucial for your vehicle’s longevity. The Essential Fluids in Your Vehicle Aside from engine oil, your vehicle has several other fluids that play vital roles: Transmission Fluid: This fluid keeps your transmission system cool and lubricated, ensuring smooth gear shifts and prolonging the life of the transmission components. Coolant (Antifreeze): Coolant regulates the engine’s temperature, preventing overheating and freezing in extreme temperatures. It also protects the engine’s internal components from corrosion. Brake Fluid: Essentia ... read more

Unlocking the Importance of Struts: A Key Component for Vehicle Performance

Unlocking the Importance of Struts: A Key Component for Vehicle Performance

When it comes to the smooth operation and safety of your vehicle, few components are as vital as the struts. Often overshadowed by more recognizable parts, struts play a fundamental role in ensuring a comfortable ride, stable handling, and overall vehicle integrity. Let's dive into why struts are indispensable for your vehicle's performance and your driving experience. 1. Support and Stability: Struts are an integral part of your vehicle's suspension system, providing support and stability to the chassis and body. Unlike traditional shock absorbers, which only dampen vibrations, struts serve a dual purpose by also supporting the weight of the vehicle. This structural support is crucial for maintaining proper wheel alignment, minimizing body roll, and ensuring consistent tire contact with the road surface. 2. Enhanced Ride Comfort: A smooth and comfortable ride is something every driver desires, and struts play a significant role in achiev ... read more